QC analytical chemistry Apprentice Review

I work within QC to ensure drug products meet requirements by completing a number of different test some take half an hour and others can take a whole two days to complete. This might include checking the tablet is the correct size, colour, density or running HPLC tests to check its purity. I work within a team to ensure we meet standards set.

I have learnt and developed on existing skills throughout my apprenticeship so far. I have developed my ability to work successfully in a team, be more confident in presenting and speaking to a group. I have also successfully learnt applicational skills in my lab such as using a HPLC, UV spectrometer, a dissolution bath and many more that I can take with me into the future of my carer.

My work based learning I love, I get to learn new skills and interact well in a great team of people. Though training can sometimes be slow, I can still develop personally and academically. The university side is very challenging, though the grades I achieve are something to be proud of this isn't without a lot of time and hard work a lot more than the 8 hours assigned weekly.

After being an apprentice for just over 18 month I am still unsure on what my next year and a half will look like In work, this has been discussed and a plan was coming together but has been put on hold due to unfortunate circumstances with Covid-19. I feel in terms of organisation, personally in my role this needed to be looked at prior to me starting so there are guidelines to follow throughout my 3 years.

My employer is very supportive with a range of people I can ask for help and advice. There is a strong positive attitude towards apprentices and we are made to feel part of the team from our first day. There is a strong support system from previous and present apprentices where friendly company, advice and support does not go a miss.

Compared to my employer I feel the provider lacks in support. I understand it is long distance learning that has many factors to consider when offering support and help. My course can be very challenging when trying to balance work, home life and study the assigned 8 hours to work on the assignment looks more like 16 hours a week sometimes. When I ask for help and support i do get it, it can sometimes just take a while to receive the correct answer.

I do believe overall that what I learn through completing my qualification benefits my role as a QC apprentice as it allows me to gain the theory behind the test i perform on a daily basis. It will also benefit me when I move into another role as the topics I learn are varied and multifunctional.

There are a range of activities that I can participate in that range from coffee mornings, sports, networking events, carer fairs. They can either be for educational purposes, relaxation or a change to talk to friends or people you have never spoken to before. Due to the size of the site most activities you can participate in work time, during lunch or after work

Yes

It is a large company where if given you can move around exploring new roles. There is a real feel that what you do is overall benefiting patients across the world with a strong feeling of satisfaction. With many sites across the UK and worldwide it does not limit you with one location and if lucky can move about through numerous sites across the globe.

Be confident as they will be looking for someone who can embrace the world of work. Don't be afraid to ask question at the end of the day you need to know if its the right job for you. It is hard work to juggle study, home life and work so don't think it is an easy option, I personal think it is a lot harder than going to university full time so be open minded.